Air Canada and pilots at impasse: What you need to know to avoid travel chaos
Air Canada says unless an agreement is reached on Sunday, either side could issue a 72-hour strike or lockout notice.
Ottawa: With a potential pilots' strike looming as early as September 18, Air Canada passengers are facing uncertainty about their travel plans. If the strike proceeds, all Air Canada flights will be canceled. The airline has pledged to notify affected customers within 48 hours of their scheduled departure and will rebook them on alternative flights where possible.
If necessary, rebooking will be arranged on partner or competitor airlines. However, passengers will not receive additional compensation for meals or accommodation during the strike, as the airline deems these disruptions beyond their control.
“The travel plans of hundreds of thousands of Canadians are hanging in the balance,” says Air Canada president and chief executive, Michael Rousseau.
Background
Air Canada and its pilots are currently in a tense negotiation over a new labor contract, with a critical deadline approaching on Sunday to finalize an agreement and avoid a strike.
We don’t want to strike, but we are ready if necessary. Air Canada pilots need an updated contract that reflects the value we bring to our employer, every day. #StrikeReady #AirCanadaPilots pic.twitter.com/UXCkzpBuWE
— Air Canada ALPA Pilots (@AirCanadaPilots) September 13, 2024
If no agreement is reached by the end of Saturday, September 14, either party may issue a strike or lockout notice. This would activate Air Canada's contingency plan to gradually suspend operations over three days, potentially leading to a complete shutdown starting at 00:01 EDT (0401 GMT) on Wednesday, September 18.
What to do if your flight is cancelled
Travellers with flights booked for the affected period should contact the booking source if their flight is cancelled. For tickets purchased directly from Air Canada, the airline will handle cancellations and rebookings. For tickets bought through third-party sites or travel agents, these entities will manage the cancellations.
Passengers with refundable tickets are eligible for a full refund from Air Canada and can book with another airline. Those with non-refundable tickets will receive credit for future travel or may reschedule their flights for dates before September 15 or between September 24 and November 30.
It is advisable for travellers to assess their destination and travel needs before making any changes, and to consider securing an alternative flight if necessary.
Alternative options and insurance considerations
For travellers who cannot adjust their plans, booking a fully refundable flight with another carrier is recommended as a backup. While this option can be costly, it offers peace of mind. Most travel insurance policies do not cover labour disruptions, as these are classified as known risks rather than unexpected events like severe weather.
Refund timeline
Air Canada is obligated under Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations to process refunds within 30 days following a flight cancellation.